# innocently

/ˈɪnəsəntɫi/ (US) · /ˈɪnəsəntli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/innocently
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

in a way that shows you are not trying to be harmful or dishonest. You use this when someone does something by accident or without bad intentions.

For teachers: in a manner that suggests a lack of malice, guilt, or ill intent. Often used to describe actions performed without awareness of their consequences or with a naive lack of sophistication.

## Examples

- He looked at her innocently as he explained the mistake.
- The child innocently asked why the sky was blue, showing no understanding of the complex physics involved.
- The defendant appeared to be speaking innocently about the events of that evening, though the prosecution argued his words were a calculated attempt to mislead the jury.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.